Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a multimodal inscribing device that is capable of assisting the user in inscribing process. The device is also capable of monitoring the type of inscription being inscribed and accordingly projecting image for guiding the user, thereby enhancing precision and ease of use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Multimodal inscribing is essential in today's diverse communication landscape as multimodal inscribing integrates multiple modes of input and output, such as text, images, sounds, and gestures, to enhance user experience. The need arises from the demand for more intuitive, flexible, and efficient inscription methods that cater to various user preferences and contexts. The importance of multimodal inscribing lies in the ability to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities, enable more expressive and creative representations, and streamline the inscription process. The multimodal inscription facilitates better understanding and engagement by combining visual, auditory, and tactile cues, making communication more effective. Overall, multimodal inscribing plays a crucial role in advancing interactive technology, fostering innovation, and supporting inclusive communication across different domains.

[0003] Traditional methods of multimodal inscribing primarily rely on manual methods such as handwriting, drawing, and physical gestures, often using tools like pens, brushes, and styluses on paper or other surfaces. These methods depend heavily on human skill and physical interaction, offering limited integration of multiple modes. Traditional multimodal inscribing methods have several drawbacks, including limited flexibility and speed, as manual processes are time-consuming and labor-intensive. They lack digital integration, making editing, sharing, and storage difficult. Additionally, these methods often lack accessibility features for individuals with disabilities and do not support real-time collaboration or multimedia integration, reducing overall efficiency and versatility.

[0004] WO2008138514A3 discloses an inscribing device (1) for writing on a chalkboard (30) with a personalized handwriting, comprising at least one holding arm (15), at least one fixing device (10), at least one drive unit (20), and a control device (50), wherein the inscribing device (1) comprises a chalk applicator (17).

[0005] GB2289447A discloses an inscribing device having first 1 and second 2 leg means with first and second ends and arranged for pivotal engagement at the respective first ends thereof by means of a screw 3 and wing nut 9. Each of the legs 1, 2 is in the form of an angle-iron in that each leg 1, 2 comprises a respective first portion 1', 2' which extends perpendicularly to a respective second portion 1", 2" which advantageously enhances the mechanical strength and stability of the device.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed for providing multimodal inscribing assistance, but they lack in monitoring the type of inscription being inscribed by the user for projecting image for guiding the user for enhancing precision and ease of use. In addition, these existing devices also lack in enabling inscription in user desired colour for providing the desired look.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of monitoring the type of inscription being inscribed by the user for projecting image for guiding the user for enhancing precision and ease of use. Additionally, the device also needs to be capable of enabling inscription in user desired colour for providing the desired look.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of monitoring the type of inscription being inscribed by the user and accordingly projecting image for guiding the user, thereby enhancing precision and ease of use.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of monitoring the spatial movement of the device during inscribing and taking the necessary steps for the optimised inscribing.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enabling inscription in user desired colour for providing the desired look and also enabling the drying of the inscription for preventing the smudging.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a multimodal inscribing device that is capable of enabling inscription in user desired colour for providing the desired look and also enabling the drying of the inscription for preventing the smudging.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a multimodal inscribing device, comprises of an elongated cylindrical housing having an opening at a front end, a hollow cylindrical member having a pliable layer towards a lower portion of the housing, to facilitate a comfortable grip, a plurality of articulated links connected the member with the housing in a radial manner to allow for a movement of the member with respect to the housing, a circular slider arranged within the housing with a plurality of inscribing tips connected rotatably and longitudinally by means of linear actuators, a multi-section chamber disposed within the housing for storing a plurality of pigments of different colours connected to the tips via conduits for enabling inscription in different colours, an articulated projection unit mounted on the housing to project images onto the inscribing surface for guiding the user with the inscription, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the housing and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of the housing to capture images of the inscription being inscribed to determine a type of inscription being inscribed by the user.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a plurality of air cushions embedded over the layer connected with an air inflator in the housing for providing cushioning while gripping, an IMU (inertial measurement unit) is installed within the housing continuously monitors a spatial movement of the housing during inscribing to accordingly actuate the links to adjust position of the housing for an optimised inscribing, a pressure sensor is embedded in each of the tips to detect a pressure applied by user during inscribing, a mixing compartment is attached with the chamber via tubes for mixing each of the pigments to create new shades as per requirement, a motorised stirrer is installed in the compartment for mixing the pigments, a plurality of air blowers is mounted on the housing by means of ball and socket joints for drying of the inscription, a sprayer connected with a front portion of the housing connected with a water tank in the housing for spraying water onto the tip for cleaning, an extendable plate is attached with the housing in a hinged manner to provide a shield against water during cleaning, a user interface is adapted to be installed with a computing unit to enable communication with a communication unit within the housing to upload a reference image for inscription, the projection unit is actuated to project the reference image onto the inscribing surface and actuate the slider and the actuator to project a tip suitable for inscribing the reference image.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a multimodal inscribing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a multimodal inscribing device that is capable of monitoring the spatial movement of the device during inscribing and taking the necessary steps for the optimised inscribing. Additionally, the device is also capable of enabling inscription in user desired colour for providing the desired look and also enabling the drying of the inscription for preventing the smudging.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a multimodal inscribing device is illustrated, comprising an elongated cylindrical housing 101 having an opening 102, a hollow cylindrical member 103, a plurality of articulated links 104 connected the member 103, a circular slider 105 arranged within the housing 101 with a plurality of inscribing tips 106, a multi-section chamber 107 disposed within the housing 101, an articulated projection unit 108 mounted on the housing 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 109 installed on the housing 101, an air inflator 110 in the housing 101, a mixing compartment 111 is attached with the chamber 107, a motorised stirrer 112 is installed in the compartment 111, a plurality of air blowers 113 is mounted on the housing 101, a sprayer 114 connected with a water tank 115, an extendable plate 116 is attached with the housing 101.

[0023] The device disclosed herein employs an elongated cylindrical housing 101. This housing 101 is having an opening 102 at a front end. The cylindrical housing 101 is preferably made up of but not limited to plastic which is light weight and easy to handle.

[0024] For activating the device, the user needs to press a push button which is arranged on the housing 101 which in turn activates all the related components for performing the desired task. After pressing the button, a closed electrical circuit is formed and current starts to flow that powers an inbuilt microcontroller to allow all the linked components to perform their respective task upon actuation.

[0025] For facilitating a comfortable grip, a hollow cylindrical member 103 that is having a pliable layer is arranged towards a lower portion of the housing 101. This cylindrical member 103 is crafted to provide an ergonomic and secure hold for the user. Additionally, the member 103 features a pliable, flexible layer on the surface, enhancing comfort by reducing pressure points and preventing slipping during use. The pliable layer is preferably made from but not limited to soft materials such as rubber or silicone, offering improved grip and control.

[0026] The layer comprises of a plurality of air cushions embedded over the layer and connected with an air inflator 110 in the housing 101 for providing cushioning while gripping. The air cushions embedded within the pliable layer are small, inflatable units strategically positioned to provide enhanced comfort and shock absorption during gripping. These cushions are made from flexible, durable materials that easily expand and contract with air pressure changes. When the user applies force to the grip, the air cushions deform slightly, distributing pressure evenly across the surface and reducing discomfort.

[0027] The air inflator 110 within the housing 101 functions as the control arrangement for the air cushions, supplying and regulating airflow into each cushion. The air inflator 110 typically comprises an air compressor and a valve arrangement. When activated, the inflator 110 pumps air into the embedded cushions via interconnected channels, increasing their volume and firmness. Conversely, the air is released through the valves to soften the cushions if a more pliable grip is desired. The inflator 110 is controlled electronically, allowing for precise adjustment of cushion firmness to suit user comfort or specific operational needs.

[0028] A plurality of articulated links 104, connects the member 103 with the housing 101 in a radial manner. This allows for a movement of the member 103 with respect to the housing 101. The articulated links 104 are a series of interconnected, pivoting joints that connect the member 103 to the housing 101 in a radial arrangement and these links 104 are designed to allow controlled movement and flexibility between the member 103 and the housing 101. The link 104 enables the member 103 to rotate, tilt, or move in specific directions while maintaining structural integrity. The articulation ensures that the member 103 adapt to various positions or angles, providing ease of adjustment.

[0029] Within the housing 101, a circular slider 105 is arranged with a plurality of inscribing tips 106. These inscribing tips 106 are connected rotatably and longitudinally by means of linear actuators. The inscribing tip 106 is a paint brush, where a nozzle is embedded in the brush and connected with the conduit for dispensing the pigment into the brush. The nozzle for dispensing the pigment precisely controls the flow of color using electronically actuated valve. The nozzle typically consists of a solenoid that regulates the opening and closing of the nozzle based on input signals. This allows for highly accurate and consistent dispensing of the pigment into the brush.

[0030] For detecting a pressure applied by the user during inscribing, a pressure sensor is embedded in each of the tips 106. The pressure sensor measures pressure by converting applied force into an electrical signal. The sensor typically consists of a diaphragm that deforms when subjected to pressure. This deformation alters the resistance. The change is then converted into a proportional electrical signal, which is processed to determine the exact pressure value.

[0031] The linear actuator is then actuated to extend and retract the tip 106 if the detected pressure is outside a predefined pressure range to prevent a damage to the tip 106. A multi-section chamber 107 is disposed within the housing 101 for storing a plurality of pigments of different colours. The chamber 107 is connected to the tips 106 via conduits for enabling inscription in different colours. The conduits connected to the chamber 107 are flexible, insulated channels designed to transport pigments from the chamber 107 to the tips 106.

[0032] With the chamber 107, a mixing compartment 111 is attached via tubes for mixing each of the pigments to create new shades as per requirement. The compartment 111 is connected to one of the tips 106 via the conduit. For mixing the pigments, a motorised stirrer 112 is positioned in the compartment 111. The motorised stirrer 112 operates by using an electric motor to drive a rotating shaft, which is equipped with a paddle. The motor's rotational force is transmitted through the shaft to the paddle, which mixes the pigment.

[0033] For projecting images onto the inscribing surface for guiding the user with the inscription, an articulated projection unit 108 is mounted on the housing 101. The articulated projection unit 108 guides onto the inscribing surface to assist the user in creating accurate inscriptions. Internally, this unit comprises a compact optical arrangement, including a light source such as a LED, along with lenses and mirrors that direct and focus the projected image. The articulated arrangement allows the projection unit 108 to be adjustable in multiple directions, enabling precise positioning and angling of the projected image relative to the surface.

[0034] An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 109 is positioned on the housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of the housing 101, to capture images of the inscription being inscribed to determine a type of inscription being inscribed by the user. The imaging unit 109 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images in vicinity of the housing 101, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 109 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 109 also comprises of the processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images.

[0035] The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and evaluate the type of inscription being inscribed by the user. On the basis of the detected inscription type, the microcontroller actuates the projection unit 108 to accordingly project an image onto the inscribing surface to guide with user and actuates the slider 105 to align one of the tips 106 and extend the tip 106 by the linear actuator in accordance with the determined inscription. The circular slider 105 consists of a sliding rail and a slidable member connected to the sliding rail. The slidable member is attached to the housing and sliding rail on both sides to make the tips slide. The slidable member is attached to a motor which provides movement to the member in a bi-directional manner.

[0036] An IMU (inertial measurement unit) is installed within the housing 101 that continuously monitors a spatial movement of the housing 101 during inscribing to accordingly actuate the links 104 to adjust position of the housing 101 for an optimised inscribing. The IMU functions as a sensor array that continuously detects the housing's spatial movements during inscribing. The sensor typically comprises accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers, which measure linear acceleration, angular velocity, and orientation relative to Earth's magnetic field, respectively. The accelerometer within the IMU measure linear acceleration along specific axes by detecting changes in velocity over time. They sense the force exerted on the sensor due to movement or gravity, providing data on the rate of change of velocity. This helps determine the housing’s movement and position relative to acceleration forces acting on it.

[0037] The gyroscope measures angular velocity, the rate of rotation around specific axes, by detecting the Coriolis force or other rotational effects. They assist in determining how quickly and in which direction the housing 101 is rotating, providing crucial orientation data. This allows to track and correct rotational movements during inscribing. The magnetometer detects the strength and direction of Earth's magnetic field, serving as a digital compass. They provide absolute orientation relative to magnetic north, aiding in determining the housing’s heading and orientation in space. This is especially useful for correcting drift errors from accelerometer and gyroscope, ensuring accurate stability and positioning.

[0038] A plurality of air blowers 113 is mounted on the housing 101 by means of ball and socket joints for drying of the inscription. The air blower 113 works by using a motor to drive an impeller, which generates a high-velocity airflow. When activated, the motor spins the impeller at high speed, creating a pressure difference that draws air in through an intake and forces out through an outlet. The design of the impeller determines the airflow rate and pressure which blow the air for drying of the inscription.

[0039] The motorized ball and socket joint, attached to the air blower 113 enables precise rotational movement in multiple directions by integrating an electric motor. The ball, typically attached to a shaft, fits into the socket, allowing to rotate freely around several axes. The motor is responsible for rotating the ball within the socket, providing controlled movement along different planes for efficient drying.

[0040] A sprayer 114 is connected with a front portion of the housing 101, connected with a water tank 115 in the housing 101 for spraying water onto the tip 106 for cleaning. The involves a water pump driven by an electric motor connected to the water tank 115 within the housing 101. When activated, the pump pressurizes the water, directing through a series of tubes to the spray nozzle located at the front portion of the housing 101. The spray nozzle atomizes the water into fine droplets, ensuring effective spraying onto the tip 106 for cleaning.

[0041] For providing a shield against water during cleaning, an extendable plate 116 is attached with the housing 101 in a hinged manner. The plate 116 is extended by drawer arrangements. The extendable plate 116 operates via the drawer arrangement comprising sliding tracks and rails embedded within the housing 101. When activated, a motor slides the plate 116 outward along these tracks, extending it from the housing 101 to form a shield. The drawer arrangement ensures smooth, controlled movement, locking securely in the extended position to provide effective water shielding during cleaning. Retracting the plate 116 reverses the process, allowing to slide back into the housing 101 when not in use, maintaining compactness and protection.

[0042] A user interface is adapted to be installed with a computing unit to enable communication with a communication unit within the housing 101, to upload a reference image for inscription. The user input the reference image that is transmitted to the microcontroller through a communication unit. The communication unit includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The Wi-Fi module contains transmitters and receivers that use radio frequency signals to transmit data wirelessly to the microcontroller. The wireless module typically includes components such as antennas, amplifiers, and processors to facilitate communication and further connected to networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, allowing devices to exchange information over short or long distances. The projection unit 108 is actuated to project the reference image onto the inscribing surface and actuate the slider 105 and the actuator to project a tip 106 suitable for inscribing the reference image.

[0043] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the elongated cylindrical housing 101 as disclosed in the invention possesses opening 102 at the front end. The hollow cylindrical member 103 having the pliable layer towards the lower portion of the housing 101 to facilitate the comfortable grip. The layer comprises the plurality of air cushions embedded over the layer connected with the air inflator 110 in the housing 101 for providing cushioning while gripping. Multiple articulated links 104 to allow for a movement of the member 103 with respect to the housing 101. The circular slider 105 with multiple inscribing tips 106 connected rotatably and longitudinally by means of linear actuators. The inscribing tip 106 is a paint brush where a nozzle is embedded in the brush connected with the conduit for dispensing the pigment into the brush. The pressure sensor to detect the pressure applied by user during inscribing to actuate the linear actuator to extend and retract the tip 106 if the detected pressure is outside a predefined pressure range to prevent the damage to the tip 106. The multi-section chamber 107 for storing the plurality of pigments of different colours connected to the tips 106 via conduits for enabling inscription in different colours. The articulated projection unit 108 to project images onto the inscribing surface for guiding the user with the inscription. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 109 integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in the vicinity of the housing 101 to capture images of the inscription being inscribed to determine the type of inscription being inscribed by the user to actuate the projection unit 108 to project the image onto the inscribing surface to guide with user and actuates the slider 105 to align one of the tips 106 and extend the tip 106 by the linear actuator in accordance with the determined inscription.

[0044] In continuation, the IMU (inertial measurement unit) continuously monitors the spatial movement of the housing 101 during inscribing to accordingly actuate the links 104 to adjust position of the housing 101 for the optimised inscribing. The mixing compartment 111 for mixing each of the pigments to create new shades. The motorised stirrer 112 for mixing the pigments. Multiple air blowers 113 connected by means of ball and socket joints for drying of the inscription. The sprayer 114 connected with a water tank 115 for spraying water onto the tip 106 for cleaning where an extendable plate 116 to provide the shield against water during cleaning where the plate 116 is extended by drawer arrangements. The user interface is adapted to be installed with the computing unit to enable communication with the communication unit within the housing 101 to upload the reference image for inscription. The projection unit 108 is actuated to project the reference image onto the inscribing surface and actuate the slider 105 and the actuator to project the tip 106 suitable for inscribing the reference image.

[0045] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A multimodal inscribing device, comprising:

i) an elongated cylindrical housing 101 having an opening 102 at a front end;
ii) a hollow cylindrical member 103 having a pliable layer towards a lower portion of the housing 101, to facilitate a comfortable grip;
iii) a plurality of articulated links 104 connected the member 103 with the housing 101 in a radial manner, to allow for a movement of the member 103 with respect to the housing 101;
iv) a circular slider 105 arranged within the housing 101, with a plurality of inscribing tips 106, connected rotatably and longitudinally by means of linear actuators;
v) a multi-section chamber 107 disposed within the housing 101 for storing a plurality of pigments of different colours, connected to the tips 106 via conduits for enabling inscription in different colours;
vi) an articulated projection unit 108 mounted on the housing 101, to project images onto the inscribing surface for guiding the user with the inscription; and
vii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 109, installed on the housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of the housing 101, to capture images of the inscription being inscribed to determine a type of inscription being inscribed by the user to trigger a microcontroller to actuate the projection unit 108 to accordingly project an image onto the inscribing surface to guide with user and actuates the slider 105 to align one of the tips 106 and extend the tip 106 by the linear actuator in accordance with the determined inscription.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said layer comprises a plurality of air cushions embedded over the layer, connected with an air inflator 110 in the housing 101, for providing cushioning while gripping.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an IMU (inertial measurement unit) is installed within the housing 101 continuously monitors a spatial movement of the housing 101 during inscribing to accordingly actuate the links 104 to adjust position of the housing 101 for an optimised inscribing.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a pressure sensor is embedded in each of the tips 106 to detect a pressure applied by user during inscribing to actuate the linear actuator to extend and retract the tip 106 if the detected pressure is outside a predefined pressure range to prevent a damage to the tip 106.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inscribing tip 106 is a paint brush, wherein a nozzle is embedded in the brush connected with the conduit for dispensing the pigment into the brush.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a mixing compartment 111 is attached with the chamber 107 via tubes for mixing each of the pigments to create new shades as per requirement, wherein the compartment 111 is connected to one of the tips 106 via the conduit.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized stirrer 112 is installed in the compartment 111 for mixing the pigments.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of air blowers 113 is mounted on the housing 101 by means of ball and socket joints for drying of the inscription.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a sprayer 114 connected with a front portion of the housing 101, connected with a water tank 115 in the housing 101 for spraying water onto the tip 106 for cleaning, wherein an extendable plate 116 is attached with the housing 101 in a hinged manner to provide a shield against water during cleaning, wherein the plate 116 is extended by drawer arrangements.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a user interface is adapted to be installed with a computing unit to enable communication with a communication unit within the housing 101, to upload a reference image for inscription, wherein the projection unit 108 is actuated to project the reference image onto the inscribing surface and actuate the slider 105 and the actuator to project a tip 106 suitable for inscribing the reference image.